FORT WORTH, Texas — As the popularity of sports betting skyrockets across the United States, Christian leaders are sounding the alarm about its potential impact on families and communities. Recently, the Southern Baptist Convention’s Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC) hosted a pivotal summit at the Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. This gathering brought together pastors from various backgrounds to discuss the urgent need for a biblical response to the rising tide of gambling.
RaShan Frost, a pastor and ERLC’s director of research, emphasized the moral implications of gambling, stating that it often fosters a spirit of covetousness and undermines the biblical principle of stewardship. “Gambling thrives on human greed, essentially denying God’s provision and leading to discontent,” Frost remarked. His insights reflect a growing concern among church leaders about how sports betting can disrupt personal relationships and community dynamics.
Since the landmark 2018 Supreme Court ruling that legalized sports betting in many states, the landscape has changed dramatically. Today, sports betting is legal in over 30 states, and advertisements flood our screens, from social media to prime-time television. This accessibility has made gambling a normalized part of sports culture, particularly among younger audiences. Frost noted, “We’re inundated with ads, and it’s becoming a significant issue, especially for young men who have easy access to betting through their smartphones.”
The consequences of sports gambling extend beyond mere financial loss. Frost highlighted alarming trends where athletes have received threats due to poor performance affecting bettors’ wallets. “Gambling reduces athletes to mere commodities, valued only for their ability to generate profit,” he explained. This commodification can lead to a toxic environment where the love of money overshadows the intrinsic worth of individuals.
Despite the growing awareness of these issues, a recent Lifeway survey indicated that while over half of pastors oppose sports betting, fewer than 3% have developed strategies to address it within their congregations. This gap in action is concerning, especially when many church members are unaware of the risks associated with gambling.
Matt Henslee, lead pastor of Plymouth Park Baptist Church in Irving, Texas, shared his own awakening to the issue. He discovered that many youth in his congregation had begun to view sports betting as harmless. “It really hit home for me when I realized how normalized it had become,” he said. Henslee has since taken a stand against local casino developments, recognizing the broader societal issues tied to gambling, such as sex trafficking and homelessness.
The Bible does not explicitly condemn gambling, but it does warn against the love of money, as seen in verses like 1 Timothy 6:10 and Hebrews 13:5. These scriptures encourage believers to focus on contentment and responsible stewardship. Church leaders are now tasked with fostering discussions around these themes, particularly in small groups, where deeper conversations can take place.
Ben Bowland, senior pastor at Travis Avenue Baptist Church, noted that small group settings provide an opportunity to address gambling issues effectively. He emphasized the importance of creating a supportive environment for individuals struggling with gambling addictions. Meanwhile, Greg Davis, president of The Alabama Citizens Action Program (ALCAP), urged pastors to engage in the legislative process, advocating for policies that reflect biblical values.
“Gambling is a con job,” Davis stated, underscoring the need for pastors to articulate the connections between faith and civic responsibility. He believes that church leaders must make their voices heard in the political arena to counteract the powerful lobbying efforts of the gambling industry.
As the sports betting industry continues to expand, the church faces a critical moment. Leaders are called to equip their congregations with the wisdom and tools necessary to confront this challenge head-on. By fostering open discussions, advocating for responsible policies, and emphasizing the biblical principles of stewardship and community, the church can play a vital role in addressing the growing concerns surrounding sports gambling. In a world where instant gratification often reigns supreme, the message of faith and responsibility is more crucial than ever.